Union approves offer from Rocky Mountain Power

Laramie, WY – The local branch of the Utility Workers Union of America has voted in favor of a contract offer from Rocky Mountain Power, avoiding a possible strike. But Local 127 President Harold Giberson says the negotiations have soured the relationship between workers and the company. He says the union will continue with other efforts, like opposing a pending request from Rocky Mountain Power to increase electrical rates. "We're going to carry on with that stuff. You know, if you're going to take money away from us, okay that's fine. But don't take money away from us twice, and the people of Wyoming."Giberson says workers aren't happy with the contract authorized last week, because it includes cuts to pensions and higher health care costs. But he says it's a better offer than the previous two, which union members rejected. The union represents nearly 600 workers at the Jim Bridger, Dave Johnston and Wyodak power plants.